Is it necessary for there to be bad experiences in one’s life? Most of humanity would probably say that the less bad, the better, but tragedies and obstacles are necessary in order for one to appreciate the good moments in life. In William Shakespeare’s comedic play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Shakespeare utilizes the different settings to demonstrate the many aspects of emotions that are needed in order for love to thrive. In this play, the city of Athens represents structure and realism whereas the fairy forest embodies the characteristics of chaos and imagination. In order for there to be true love, there must be a balance of these emotions, as true love must contain obstacles to make it stronger.
Athens exemplifies the more “appropriate” love in society’s eyes; however, a …show more content…
For example, as Theseus and Hippolyta’s wedding approaches, Theseus exclaims, “Now, fair Hippolyta, our nuptial hour / Draws on apace; Four happy days bring in / Another moon; but, O, methinks how slow / This old moon wanes” (I.i.1-4). The moon symbolizes Diana, a Roman goddess, who protects the animals as well as maintains her position as the goddess of virginity. When Theseus begs for the moon to come quicker, he wants to strip Hippolyta of her virginity as quickly as possible displaying how insincere love can be without obstacles. In addition, after Theseus makes his ruling on Hermia and Lysander’s case, Theseus suggests, “What you say, Hermia? Be advis’d, fair maid. / To you your father should be as a god” (I.i.46-47). Hermia’s obedience to her father displays the strict standards and structure that come with living within the walls of Athens and having to comply by their law. By putting her father on the pedestal of being a God, she demonstrates how minimal she is compared to someone who is above humanity. There is no room for growth or love when one’s
Athens exemplifies the more “appropriate” love in society’s eyes; however, a …show more content…
For example, as Theseus and Hippolyta’s wedding approaches, Theseus exclaims, “Now, fair Hippolyta, our nuptial hour / Draws on apace; Four happy days bring in / Another moon; but, O, methinks how slow / This old moon wanes” (I.i.1-4). The moon symbolizes Diana, a Roman goddess, who protects the animals as well as maintains her position as the goddess of virginity. When Theseus begs for the moon to come quicker, he wants to strip Hippolyta of her virginity as quickly as possible displaying how insincere love can be without obstacles. In addition, after Theseus makes his ruling on Hermia and Lysander’s case, Theseus suggests, “What you say, Hermia? Be advis’d, fair maid. / To you your father should be as a god” (I.i.46-47). Hermia’s obedience to her father displays the strict standards and structure that come with living within the walls of Athens and having to comply by their law. By putting her father on the pedestal of being a God, she demonstrates how minimal she is compared to someone who is above humanity. There is no room for growth or love when one’s